Letter to Chuck Hagel, Secretary of the Department of Defense

Letter

Dear Secretary Hagel,

I urge you not to cut troop levels for the National Guard in your anticipated FY2015 budget proposal. The National Guard is an essential component of America's defense apparatus and has proven to be as effective as its active duty counterparts.

Given the current fiscal climate the Pentagon has to consider various options aimed at reducing cost. Significant savings can be had by eliminating wasteful defense systems that have had no real world impact towards our national security. The National Guard, on the other hand, is a tried and tested component of our military that has answered the call of duty time and again - particularly over the last thirteen years during our conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Under certain scenarios, the Iowa National Guard is looking at cuts of up to 8 or 9 percent which could translate to a loss of up to 648 soldiers. These cuts would be devastating to the state of Iowa as the National Guard also serves in times of natural disasters, helping Iowans during floods and tornadoes.

Once again, I urge you not to reduce the strength of the National Guard, so that they can continue to serve effectively in times of international and domestic crises. Thank you for your consideration on this important issue and I look forward to your response.

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